2023 NFL Mock Draft: First Round Projections After Dolphins Lose Pick

13. Minnesota Vikings: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

A shocker in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft! The Minnesota Vikings did a lot in the 2022 NFL Draft to address the secondary, linebacker, and guard. Center could be an option in the first round in 2023, but none really warrant a top 15 selection. Instead, it’s time to get a playmaking tight end for Kevin O’Connell’s offense. Michael Mayer can play inline and has the quickness and play strength to separate as a receiver.

14. Houston Texans (via CLE): Noah Sewell, LB, Oregon

The Houston Texans have two first round picks again in 2023, and both picks could be used to get defensive studs in the front seven. After drafting Anderson, they get their stud middle linebacker in Noah Sewell. Sewell has the stature and processing skills to be a downhill linebacker. If he cleans up the missed tackles, an Anderson-Sewell-Stingley trio would make the defense take off.

15. Las Vegas Raiders: Peter Skoronski, OL, Northwestern

The Las Vegas Raiders have work to do along their offensive line, and it’s telling that Alex Leatherwood was playing late into their preseason game against Minnesota. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they get their right tackle in Peter Skoronski.

Skoronski played well as a sophomore in the Big Ten, and did a good job against both Michigan edge rushers. His length could create a divide in the scouting community, but the technique and performance speak for themselves.

16. New England Patriots: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU

The New England Patriots have struggled to hit at the wide receiver position in the draft, but this time they get the true WR1 for Mac Jones. Kayshon Boutte has the explosiveness and route running prowess to be a three-level threat.